Fundamental Alterations of Essential Course Elements

Faculty cannot refuse to provide an approved accommodation. If a faculty member believes an approved accommodation fundamentally alters the essential elements of the curriculum, evaluation standards, or expected outcomes of a course, the faculty member much contact SDS. SDS will schedule a meeting with the faculty member and the relevant department chair to discuss the faculty member’s concerns. The dean of the school or college in question may be invited into the discussion as well.

If, through that discussion, it is agreed the accommodation in question does not fundamentally alter essential elements of the curriculum, evaluation standards or expected outcomes of a course, the accommodation will continue to be provided in the course. If it is determined that the accommodation does fundamentally alter the curriculum, evaluation standards or expected outcomes, the accommodation in question will be discontinued. Before discontinuation of the accommodation, the faculty member, the student and SDS will attempt to identify an alternate accommodation that allows the student equal access to the course.

Please be aware, as per university policy regarding students with disabilities (ACA.EO.200.001), faculty must continue to provide the accommodation in question while the discussion regarding your concerns is in process.